Introduction to Patient Management
Patient and Family Education
Product and Therapy
Patient Responsibilities
Pain Assessment Strategies

• Product and therapy
• Patient responsibilities

By educating and informing the patient, you reduce the risk of complications and increase the patientís comfort level and response to therapy. Informed patients with realistic expectations are more likely to be satisfied with the therapy and in turn, positively influence their therapy experience. Refer to the Patient Education Checklist for a detailed list of patient education topics.

• Therapy goals and expectations
• Effectiveness of continuous intrathecal therapy vs. PRN dosing
• Benefits and risks of intrathecal therapy
• Drug action and potential adverse events
• Description of system components and function; performance, care, and operation of the system
• Description of the screening test and implant procedure
• Potential device complications and drug side effects
• Role of patient, physician and patient-management coordinator.

Patients should be reminded of the active role they will need to play in their therapy and the restrictions that are associated with the implant. Patients should be instructed to:

• Avoid physical activities that may damage the implant site or system
• Consult their physician if they notice any unusual symptoms
• Return for refills at the prescribed time
• Notify personal physicians or consulting physicians of the implanted pump and the medication it contains
• Consult their physician before scheduling any additional therapies or diagnostic tests (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging, lithotripsy)
• Carry the patient identification card or medical ID bracelet/necklace at all times

To see Citations regarding Patient Management. . .

To see Case Studies. . .

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Introduction to Patient Management
Patient and Family Education
Product and Therapy
Patient Responsibilities
Pain Assessment Strategies